York County Detention Center, Pennsylvania

Use this website for informational purposes only.

The York County Detention Center, located in Pennsylvania, is a correctional facility responsible for housing individuals who have been arrested, awaiting trial, or have been sentenced to serve time. This county jail plays a pivotal role in the local judicial system, ensuring inmates' safety and the community's security.

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Detention Center Inmate Lookup

To find an inmate housed at the detention facility:

1. Official Website: Start by visiting the official website of the York County Detention Center.
2. Inmate Lookup Tool: Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" section. This online portal allows users to search for inmates using various criteria.
3. Provide Information: Enter the inmate's first name, last name, or booking number if known. The more specific you can be, the narrower your search results will be.
4. Search Results: After entering the details, the search will provide a list of inmates matching the criteria. Click on the name of the inmate you're searching for to access more detailed information.
5. Contact the Jail: If you cannot locate the inmate through the online search, you can contact the county jail directly. They may be able to provide further assistance.

Jail Roster

The jail roster is a comprehensive list of all inmates currently housed in the facility. The roster provides various details, ensuring transparency and helping individuals locate specific inmates. Here's what you can typically find on the roster:

• Booking Number: A unique identifier assigned to each inmate upon their entry into the facility.

• Last Name: The surname of the inmate.

• First Name: The given name of the inmate.

• Date of Birth: The birthdate of the inmate, helping to distinguish between individuals with similar names.

• Release Date: If applicable, this date signifies when the inmate is expected to be released from the detention facility. This could be either upon completion of their sentence or if they are granted bail.

• Criminal Charges: A summary or list of the legal charges that led to the inmate's incarceration. This provides insight into why the inmate is being held.

For a more detailed account or additional information beyond these general data points, users might need to directly contact the correction facility or refer to the linked individual profiles from the roster.

Advanced Search Features:

Many detention facilities, including the York County Detention Center, may offer advanced search features on their online portals. This could include searching by:

• Middle Name or Initial: Helps narrow down common names.
• Age Range: Provides a way to filter inmates by a specific age bracket.
• Gender: Allows searchers to specify male, female, or other gender identities.
• Booking Date Range: For searching inmates booked within a specific timeframe.

Confidentiality Concerns:

Certain inmates, especially minors or those involved in high-profile cases, might have limited details available to the public due to privacy concerns. In such instances, direct communication with the facility may be required.

Roster Update Frequency:

The frequency at which the roster is updated varies by facility. In many cases, the roster might be updated daily to reflect new bookings and releases. However, during peak times or due to system updates, there might be a delay.

Inmate Classification:

Some rosters may include information on inmate classification, which indicates the security level assigned to an inmate based on their risk assessment. This can range from minimum to maximum security classifications.

Housing Location:

Depending on the size and complexity of the correction facility, the roster may also detail the specific block or section of the jail where the inmate is housed.

Tips for an Effective Offender Lookup

1. Use Multiple Search Criteria: When using online search tools, input as much information as you have. This can help narrow down results, especially in larger facilities with numerous inmates.
2. Verify Spelling: Ensure the name's spelling is accurate. Variations or misspellings can result in no matches.
3. Limit Search Criteria Initially: If you're unsure about specific details, start with broad criteria, and then narrow down based on the results.
4. Utilize External Databases: Websites like VINElink can provide inmate information for various jurisdictions and may offer supplementary data.
5. Stay Patient and Persistent: If you don't find the information right away, consider revisiting the site after some time or directly contact the detention facility.
6. Respect Privacy: Remember that some inmate details might be restricted. Respect these limitations and understand they're in place for safety and privacy reasons.

Mugshots

Mugshots are photographic portraits typically taken from the front and sometimes the side, of an individual after they have been arrested. These photos serve several purposes:

• Identification: Mugshots provide a visual record of the arrestee's appearance, aiding in identification by law enforcement and potential witnesses.

• Record Keeping: Alongside other booking details, mugshots are a standard component of an inmate's jail record.

• Public Safety: In some cases, mugshots are released to the public to warn of potentially dangerous individuals or to solicit information related to a crime.

Availability in York County:

In York County, as with many jurisdictions, mugshots are typically considered public records. This means they can generally be accessed by the public, unless there are specific reasons to withhold them, such as for the safety or privacy of the individual. However, the process to access these mugshots might differ:

1. Online Databases: The York County Detention Center's official website or affiliated county websites may have a searchable database that includes mugshots alongside other inmate details.

2. Third-Party Websites: There are various websites that aggregate and display mugshots from multiple jurisdictions. However, it's crucial to verify the authenticity and accuracy of these sites.

3. Direct Requests: If mugshots are not accessible online, one might need to place a direct request with the York County Detention Center or the appropriate county agency.

Incarceration Records

Obtaining Incarceration Records:

Incarceration records are official documents that provide details about an individual's time in detention. These records may include booking details, charges, sentencing, and release information.

1. Official Request: Begin by submitting a formal request to the York County Detention Center or the county's records department. This can often be done online, but in some cases, a mailed or in-person request might be required.

2. Provide Relevant Information: To expedite the search and ensure accuracy, provide as much information as possible about the individual in question. This could include full name, date of birth, and specific dates of incarceration if known.

3. Understand Associated Fees: There might be fees associated with obtaining these records, especially if you're requesting hard copies or multiple documents.

4. Wait for Processing: The processing time for record requests can vary. While some records might be readily available, others might take days or even weeks to retrieve, especially for older cases or in high-demand periods.

5. Third-Party Services: Various online platforms offer services to retrieve incarceration records on behalf of individuals. While they might be convenient, ensure that these platforms are legitimate and understand any fees or terms associated with their use.

6. Know Your Rights: Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and state-level public records laws, citizens have the right to access most incarceration records. However, some details might be redacted for privacy or security reasons.

Inmate Calls

Inmate Call System & Associated Regulations:

Inmates at the York County Detention Center, like many correction facilities, have access to a phone system that allows them to make outgoing calls to friends, family, and legal representatives. Here's how the system generally works:

1. Collect Calls: Often, the primary method of calling is via collect calls, where the receiving party pays for the call. Note that not all phone service providers accept collect calls.

2. Prepaid Accounts: Some jails allow friends or family to set up prepaid phone accounts for inmates. This enables inmates to call without the receiver incurring the charges.

3. Call Duration: Calls may be limited in duration to ensure all inmates have access to phones and to manage the facility's phone traffic.

4. Monitoring & Recording: For security reasons, all calls, with the exception of those to legal representatives, may be monitored and recorded.

5. Restricted Numbers: Inmates might be prohibited from calling certain numbers, especially if there are security concerns.

Guidelines for Use:

• Always follow the jail's recommended procedure for setting up prepaid accounts or accepting collect calls.
• Be aware of the scheduled call times for inmates.
• Ensure any conversations abide by facility rules, understanding that inappropriate conversations could lead to call privileges being revoked.

Inmate Mail

Sending Mail to an Inmate:

1. Address Format: Mail sent to inmates should be addressed using a specific format, which typically includes the inmate's full name, booking number, and the jail's address. This format ensures the mail reaches the correct individual.

2. Content Restrictions: While inmates can receive letters, there may be restrictions on other contents. Items like contraband, explicit material, or anything that can compromise the jail's security are strictly prohibited.

3. Mail Screening: All mail, with the exception of legal correspondence, may be opened and inspected by jail staff for security reasons.

Guidelines for Sending Mail and Packages:

1. Use Blue or Black Ink: Some jails may require that letters be written in blue or black ink only.

2. Photos: Inmates may be allowed to receive photos, but they must adhere to jail guidelines. For instance, explicit photos or those showing illegal activities would be disallowed.

3. Packages: Some facilities may allow inmates to receive packages, but these would have specific regulations. It's essential to check with the York County Detention Center about its package policy.

4. Books and Magazines: If sending books or magazines, they often must be shipped directly from the publisher or a recognized bookstore to ensure they haven't been tampered with.

5. Return Address: Always include a return address on any mail or package sent.

6. Legal Mail: Correspondence from legal representatives should be clearly marked as such and will typically be opened in the presence of the inmate to ensure privacy.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on inmate calls and mail, always refer directly to the York County Detention Center's official guidelines or contact the facility.

Sending Money to Inmates

Approved Methods:

At the York County Detention Center, there are typically several methods to send money to inmates:

1. Online Services: Various third-party platforms may be partnered with the facility, allowing you to deposit money into an inmate's account online using a credit or debit card.

2. Money Orders: Some detention facilities accept money orders mailed directly to the jail. Ensure it's made payable to the inmate with their booking number for reference.

3. Kiosk Deposits: The detention facility might have kiosks in the lobby where you can directly deposit money into an inmate's account.

4. Phone Deposits: Some jails allow for money to be deposited over the phone using credit or debit cards.

Regulations and Limitations:

1. Maximum Amount: There's often a cap on the maximum amount of money that can be sent or deposited into an inmate's account within a given timeframe.

2. Transaction Fees: Using online or phone services might incur a transaction fee.

3. Refunds: Money sent to inmates is typically non-refundable, even if the inmate is released or transferred.

4. Misuse: If it's determined that funds are being used inappropriately by an inmate, privileges can be restricted.

5. Clearance Time: Depending on the deposit method, there might be a waiting period before the funds are available for the inmate's use.

Commissary

A commissary is a store within the detention facility that allows inmates to purchase products that aren't readily provided by the jail. This can range from snacks and toiletries to writing supplies and clothing items. The purpose of the commissary is to offer inmates the opportunity to obtain additional comfort items, promote good behavior (as misuse can result in commissary privileges being revoked), and provide a semblance of normalcy.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary:

1. Account: Inmates have a personal commissary account where deposited funds are stored.

2. Ordering Process: At designated times, inmates can fill out a commissary order form, selecting items they wish to purchase. The cost of these items is then deducted from their account.

3. Delivery: Once an order is processed, items are delivered to the inmate's housing location on specified delivery days.

Restrictions on Commissary Use:

1. Spending Limit: There's often a weekly or monthly spending cap to ensure fairness and manage inventory.

2. Item Limit: Certain items might have quantity restrictions to prevent hoarding or resale within the jail.

3. Behavioral Restrictions: Inmates who violate facility rules or are involved in disciplinary actions might temporarily lose their commissary privileges.

4. Prohibited Items: While the commissary provides a variety of products, anything deemed a security risk won't be available for purchase.

As always, for the most current details regarding sending money or the commissary at the York County Detention Center, it's recommended to consult the facility's official guidelines or contact them directly.

Visitation

Visiting an inmate at the York County Detention Center can provide much-needed emotional support during their time of incarceration. However, there are specific protocols and rules to ensure the security and orderly management of the facility.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit:

1. Pre-Approval: Before visiting, potential visitors might need to be pre-approved. This could involve submitting a visitation application form with personal details for a background check.

2. Scheduling a Visit: Once approved, visitors typically need to schedule their visit in advance. This can be done online, over the phone, or sometimes in-person. Some facilities operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while others might have a more structured scheduling system.

3. Identification: On the day of the visit, ensure you have a valid government-issued ID. Some facilities may also accept other forms of identification, but it's best to check beforehand.

Rules and Regulations for Visits:

1. Dress Code: There's often a strict dress code in place. Revealing clothing, clothes with inappropriate messages, or any attire that could be considered a security risk may be prohibited.

2. Conduct: All visitors must behave appropriately. Loud, disruptive, or inappropriate behavior could lead to the visitation being terminated and potential bans from future visits.

3. Searches: Be prepared to be searched before entering the visitation area. This ensures no contraband is brought into the facility.

4. Items Allowed: Typically, visitors are only allowed to bring their ID and a small amount of money for vending machines if available. Personal items like bags, phones, and keys are usually not allowed in the visitation area.

5. Minors: Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Some jails might require proof of guardianship or parental consent for minors to visit.

6. Contact: Depending on the facility and the security level of the inmate, visitations might be non-contact, meaning a barrier separates visitors and inmates.

Location and Contact Details

Official Address

3400 Concord Rd, York, PA 17402

Official Phone Number

717-840-7580

Official Website

yorkcountypa.gov

Security Level

The security level of a detention center is crucial in maintaining safety, order, and discipline within the institution. It reflects the measures in place to prevent incidents, escape attempts, and to manage inmates based on the severity of their offenses and potential risks.

1. Physical Barriers: This includes high walls, razor-wire fences, secure entry and exit points, reinforced doors, and surveillance cameras.

2. Monitoring Systems: Advanced surveillance systems often continuously monitor inmate activities. This includes CCTV cameras, motion detectors, and other electronic monitoring tools.

3. Routine Checks: Regular cell checks, headcounts, and pat-downs are carried out to ensure inmates are accounted for and to detect any prohibited items or contraband.

4. Controlled Movement: Inmates' movement within the facility is usually controlled. This means they need permissions to move between areas, and their movements are often supervised.

5. Restricted Items: There's a list of prohibited items that inmates are not allowed to possess, and these are regularly checked for during inspections.

Categories of Offenders Housed:

1. Minimum Security: Offenders in this category are often those who have committed non-violent crimes and pose a low risk. They might be near the end of their sentences or have demonstrated good behavior. The environment is less restrictive, and they might have more freedoms within the facility.

2. Medium Security: These offenders may have committed more serious offenses but aren't considered high risk. The environment is more controlled than minimum security, with increased surveillance and fewer freedoms.

3. Maximum Security: This category houses inmates who have committed serious crimes and might pose a significant risk to others. The environment is highly restrictive, with strict measures in place to ensure safety and security.

4. Protective Custody: Some inmates, such as those at risk of harm from other inmates, might be placed in protective custody. This ensures their safety, even if they don't necessarily pose a risk themselves.

Role of Correctional Officers:

1. Supervision: One of the primary roles of correctional officers is to supervise inmates. This ensures compliance with rules and prevents any potential issues or conflicts.

2. Safety and Order: They maintain safety within the facility, intervening in conflicts or situations that might lead to harm.

3. Searches and Inspections: Correctional officers conduct routine cell inspections to detect contraband and ensure that inmates are not in possession of prohibited items.

4. Inmate Transportation: They oversee the movement of inmates within the facility and during transfers, ensuring security during these transitions.

5. Communication: Correctional officers act as a link between inmates and the external world, facilitating approved communication and visitations.

6. Emergency Response: In the event of emergencies, such as fights, fires, or medical situations, correctional officers are the first responders, taking immediate action and coordinating with other security or medical staff.

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search

How can I search for an inmate?

You can typically search for an inmate by visiting the official website of the correctional facility or state's Department of Corrections. These websites often have an "Inmate Locator" or "Inmate Search" feature that allows you to enter the inmate's name or identification number to find their current location.

Can I search for an inmate in any facility across the country?

While some databases provide national inmate searches, most are limited to a specific state or facility. For a nationwide search, you might consider using third-party websites, but ensure they are reputable and accurate.

Are inmate search results up-to-date?

Most inmate databases are updated regularly, but there might be a delay between when an inmate is transferred and when the database reflects this change.

What information is needed to conduct an inmate search?

Usually, the inmate's full name and/or inmate identification number are required. Some databases might also ask for other details like date of birth or age range.

Why can't I find the inmate I'm looking for?

The inmate might be in a facility not covered by the database you're using, or there could be a spelling error in the name. It's also possible the inmate has been released.

Arrests Lookup

How can I look up recent arrests?

Recent arrests can be looked up on local law enforcement agency websites, newspapers, or third-party arrest databases online.

What information is provided in an arrest record?

An arrest record typically includes the individual's name, date of arrest, charges, bail amount, and the arresting agency.

Are juvenile arrest records available for lookup?

Juvenile arrest records are usually sealed and not publicly accessible to protect the minor's privacy.

How soon after an arrest is the information updated?

This varies by jurisdiction but usually occurs within 24-48 hours of the arrest.

Jail Bookings

How can I see recent jail bookings?

Most county jails and detention centers provide online access to recent bookings. Check the official website of the facility.

What's the difference between an arrest and a booking?

An arrest refers to the act of taking someone into custody. Booking is the process that follows an arrest where the individual's information is recorded, and they are placed in jail.

How long after a booking is the information available online?

Typically, booking information is available online within a few hours to a day after the booking.

Inmate Calls

Can inmates make and receive phone calls?

Yes, inmates can typically make outgoing calls and receive incoming calls, but policies vary by facility.

What are the charges associated with inmate phone calls?

Costs can vary, but inmates or their families are usually charged per minute. Some facilities also have a setup fee or connection charge.

Can I set up a prepaid account for inmate calls?

Yes, many correctional facilities allow families to set up prepaid accounts to cover the costs of inmate phone calls.

Are inmate phone calls recorded?

Most inmate phone calls are recorded and can be monitored by the facility for security reasons.

Inmate Mail

How can I send mail to an inmate?

Address the mail to the inmate using their full name, inmate ID number, and the facility's address. Always check the facility's guidelines on sending mail.

Are there restrictions on what I can send?

Yes, there are often restrictions on the types of items you can send. Commonly prohibited items include electronics, food, and items that could be used as weapons.

How is mail screened or inspected?

All incoming mail is typically inspected by correctional staff for contraband or prohibited items.

Visitation

How do I schedule a visitation?

Visitations are usually scheduled by calling the facility or using an online scheduling system provided by the facility.

Are there any restrictions or rules for visitations?

Yes, facilities have rules regarding dress code, behavior, and items you can bring. Always check these rules before visiting.

How many visitors are allowed at once?

This varies by facility, but there's often a limit to the number of visitors per inmate during a single visitation session.

Can children visit inmates?

Most facilities allow children to visit inmates, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Sending Money

How can I send money to an inmate?

Methods include online payments, money orders, or through third-party services. Always check the facility's accepted methods.

Are there fees associated with sending money?

Yes, there might be transaction fees, especially with online payments or third-party services.

How can the inmate use the money?

Inmates can use the money for commissary items, phone calls, or other approved expenses.

Posting Bond

How can I post bond for an inmate?

Bond can typically be posted at the jail or courthouse, either in cash or through a bail bond agency.

What payment methods are accepted for bond?

This varies but may include cash, cashier's checks, credit cards, or property.

Is the bond refundable?

If the defendant appears in court as required, the bond is usually refundable minus any fees or charges.

Legal Assistance for Inmates

How can inmates access legal assistance?

Inmates can request a public defender, hire a private attorney, or access legal resources provided by the facility.

Are public defenders available for inmates?

Yes, inmates who cannot afford an attorney are typically eligible for a public defender.

Can I hire a private attorney for an inmate?

Yes, family or friends can hire a private attorney to represent an inmate.

Release

How can I find out an inmate's release date?

This information can often be found through the inmate locator tool on the facility's website or by contacting the facility directly.

What happens when an inmate is released?

Upon release, the inmate usually receives any personal belongings confiscated during booking and may be provided with transportation or resources to assist with reintegration.

Are there post-release programs or resources available?

Many jurisdictions offer post-release programs, such as probation, parole, counseling, or job training to help reintegrate inmates into society.

Criminal Records Lookup

How can I access someone's criminal record?

Criminal records can be accessed through state or county court records, online databases, or third-party services.

Is there a fee to look up criminal records?

There might be a fee, especially when using third-party services or requesting certified copies.

Are all criminal records publicly accessible?

No, some records, especially juvenile records or expunged records, might not be publicly accessible.

How accurate are the criminal records?

While official sources aim for accuracy, errors can occur. Always verify information through multiple sources if accuracy is crucial.

Background Check

What information is included in a background check?

Background checks can include criminal records, employment history, education verification, credit reports, and more.

How long does it take to get the results of a background check?

This varies based on the type and depth of the check, but most are completed within a few days to a week.

Who can request a background check?

Employers, landlords, and certain organizations can request background checks. Individuals can also request their background check.

Is there a difference between a criminal background check and a regular background check?

Yes, a criminal background check focuses solely on criminal history, while a regular background check can encompass a broader range of information.